King James Version

What Does Revelation 11:4 Mean?

Revelation 11:4 in the King James Version says “These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.”

Revelation 11:4 · KJV

Context

2

But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months. leave out: Gr. cast out

3

And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. I will give: or, I will give unto my two witnesses that they may prophesy

4

These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.

5

And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.

6

These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.

Read Revelation 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.... This verse from Revelation's vision of two witnesses and seventh trumpet - faithful testimony, christ's kingdom proclaimed employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 11:4 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
οὗτοί1 of 15

“These”

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

εἰσιν2 of 15

“are”

G1526

they are

αἱ3 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δύο4 of 15

“the two”

G1417

"two"

ἐλαῖαι5 of 15

“olive”

G1636

an olive (the tree or the fruit)

καὶ6 of 15

“trees and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

δύο7 of 15

“the two”

G1417

"two"

λυχνίαι8 of 15

“candlesticks”

G3087

a lamp-stand (literally or figuratively)

αἱ9 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐνώπιον10 of 15

“before”

G1799

in the face of (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ11 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Θεοῦ12 of 15

“the God”

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

τῆς13 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γῆς14 of 15

“of the earth”

G1093

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

ἑστῶσαι15 of 15

“standing”

G2476

to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 11:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 11:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Zechariah 4:11-14Zechariah 4:2-3Jeremiah 11:16Psalms 52:8Isaiah 54:5Revelation 1:20

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